Greater New Orleans

How Do You Voodoo?

Think all Voodoo is good for is torturing dolls made in the likeness of your no-good, rotten, cheating ex-boyfriend and/ or girlfriend?

Well, think again. And please, put the doll away now.

Ashade Meadows Peristyle New Orleans Voodoo Church is celebrating its 3rd annual La Source Ancienne Ounfo's Couche Voodoo initiations on May 20-26 to celebrate and revitalize New Orleans' spiritual growth.

Sallie-Ann Glassman (Voodoo priestess and owner of the Bywater church) and Bloody Mary (local Voodoo queen, historian, and tour guide) welcome renowned Voodoo priest, Edgar Jean-Louis, to lead the events which are open to the public-as long as you're wearing all-white, of course.

Louis, a native of Port-Au-Prince, has been a Voodoo priest ever since he inherited the "healing knowledge" and "mystical powers" known as Spirit from his father and grandfather at the tender age of 11.

He will preside over the Rada Ritual (7 pm, May 20th) the Brule Zin Fire Ritual (9 pm, May 23rd), and the Lave Ritual (8 am, May 25) at 3319 Rosalie Alley. Plus, on May 27 at 7 pm, there will be a cleansing ritual to "feed the spirit" and "cleanse New Orleanians" where donations starting at $75 will be accepted with all benefits going to the Bywater church.

And for those in serious need of spiritual healing and rejuvenation, Louis will also be available for private readings, healings, spiritual baths, treatments, head washings, and the removal of bad luck and negativity if you call Island of Salvation Botanica at 504- 948-9961.

Guess you won't be needing that doll for an emotional release after all.